Local talent stars in 'Sylvia'

Local talent Elizabeth Brissenden has the lead role in the play "Sylvia" at the CVIC Hall in Minden. Sylvia is a dog rescued from Central Park by a sympathetic man and he gladly brings the dog home to his wife. The once-happy New York couple react to the new addition with mixed emotions creating a love triangle. The dog, a street-smart Labrador and poodle mix, displays unusually human characteristics that challenge the couple's relationship.

Born in Hope Valley, Brissenden developed an interest in music and dance at an early age. Her parents were patrons of the arts and her father was an avid music lover. Her exposure to musicals, varied music styles and dance interpretations led her to ballet and jazz classes as well as professional training for ice skating.

She attended Douglas High School where she first experienced drama classes that sparked her interest in acting. Under the direction of Rod Hearn, drama teacher, she developed her acting skills. During her senior year she became serious about pursuing an acting career. Moving to New York she studied at the American Musical & Dramatic Academy and New School University, a liberal arts college where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts/Music degree. She also attended classes at the John Strasberg Studios.

While in New York she combined her dancing and acting skills and was cast in numerous short films, music videos, theater and off-Broadway plays. The multi-talented young actress then moved to Los Angeles to parlay her experience in both film and music. Now settled in Carson Valley, she divides her time between teaching classes at The Academy of Dance Arts in Gardnerville and acting in local plays.

Hearn, director of "Sylvia," said Brissenden was perfect for this part based on his experience with her in early classes. This talented young actress with impressive skills will surely charm her audience in this heartwarming story of the love and devotion of the dog named Sylvia.

Performances at the CVIC Hall in downtown Minden are July 20, 21, 27 and 28 at 7 p.m. and July 21, 22, 28 and 29 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for general admission, $10 for seniors (55 and older) and youths (17 and younger). Tickets can be purchased online at www.thedakotaorganization.com or by calling 265-7694.